How to Fight a Cold Using Chinese Medicine and Herbal Remedies

What is the Chinese herb medicine for cold?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a cold isn’t simply a set of symptoms to suppress—it’s a signal that the body’s balance has been disturbed. Chinese herbal remedies offer a thoughtful, holistic approach to restoring this harmony by strengthening the body’s natural defenses. When a cold strikes, many turn to TCM’s rich wisdom for relief, relying on herbs chosen specifically for the type of cold at hand, whether it’s the chills of “Wind-Cold” or the feverish discomfort of “Wind-Heat.” These remedies don’t just address symptoms; they work gently with the body to ease discomfort and support a full recovery.

Understanding the Role of ‘Wind’ in Chinese Medicine for Treating Colds

Understanding how colds develop in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) involves examining the role of external influences, particularly “Wind.” In TCM, Wind is seen as one of six external pathogenic factors—alongside Cold, Heat, Dampness, Dryness, and Summer Heat—that can disrupt the body’s natural defenses and lead to illness. Known as the “spearhead” of disease, Wind is believed to carry other pathogens into a weakened system, especially when factors like stress or lack of rest diminish the body’s protective energy, or Wei Qi. This disturbance of balance can manifest as cold symptoms, driven by the qualities of Wind itself: swift, shifting, and invasive.

According to research, colds in TCM are further categorized into two primary patterns, Wind-Cold and Wind-Heat, each with unique symptoms. Wind-Cold is typified by chills, stiffness, and clear nasal discharge and arises when Cold combines with Wind to block the flow of Qi and blood. Treatment for Wind-Cold focuses on expelling Wind and warming the body with targeted herbs. Wind-Heat, on the other hand, is associated with fever, sore throat, and yellow nasal discharge, resulting from Wind blending with Heat. Here, cooling herbs are used to expel Wind and clear Heat. By distinguishing between these patterns, our practitioners at ACA Acupuncture and Wellness can customize treatments to effectively restore balance, bringing the body back to a state of wellness.

Recognizing Early Signs: How to Stop an Oncoming Cold

Early Symptoms to Watch For

Identifying the initial signs of a cold can make a significant difference in recovery time. Early intervention can prevent the illness from fully manifesting.

Common Early Symptoms Include:

• Sore Throat: A scratchy or irritated feeling in the throat.
• Sneezing: Frequent sneezing without other allergy symptoms.
• Chills: Feeling unusually cold or shivering without a significant drop in ambient temperature.
• Mild Headache: Often due to sinus congestion.
• Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or lethargy.
• Body Aches: Mild discomfort in muscles and joints.
• Runny or Stuffy Nose: Clear nasal discharge indicating Wind-Cold, or yellowish discharge indicating Wind-Heat.

The Importance of Immediate Action

Taking prompt action at the first hint of a cold can significantly shorten its duration and lessen symptom severity.

How Early Intervention Can Shorten the Duration of a Cold

• Boosts Immune Response: Early measures can enhance the body’s natural defenses.
• Prevents Pathogen Progression: Stops the pathogen from penetrating deeper into the body.
• Reduces Symptom Severity: Mitigates the intensity of symptoms, making the cold more manageable.

Tips on How to Prevent an Oncoming Cold

1. Stay Warm: Dress appropriately, especially around the neck and chest areas, to protect against Wind and Cold exposure.
2. Hydrate with Warm Fluids: Drink herbal teas and warm water to support the immune system and flush out toxins.
3. Rest: Prioritize sleep and avoid overexertion to allow the body to focus on healing.
4. Avoid Cold and Raw Foods: These can introduce more Cold into the body; opt for warm, cooked meals instead.
5. Use Herbal Remedies: Begin taking appropriate herbs or formulas at the first sign of symptoms.
6. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands regularly to prevent the spread of pathogens.
7. Limit Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques to prevent stress from weakening the immune system.

By incorporating these practices, you can stop a cold in its tracks and maintain your well-being.

Top Chinese Herbs for Combating Colds

Best Herbs for Colds and Flu

Chinese herbal medicine offers a variety of herbs that are effective in combating the common cold by addressing specific symptoms and patterns.

1. Ginger (Sheng Jiang):

• Properties: Warm, acrid.
• Functions: Dispels Wind-Cold, warms the middle burner (digestive system), alleviates nausea.
• Usage: Fresh ginger can be sliced and brewed into a tea to promote sweating and dispel Cold.

2. Cinnamon Twig (Gui Zhi):

• Properties: Warm, sweet, acrid.
• Functions: Releases the exterior by promoting sweating, warms the channels, improves circulation.
• Usage: Often used in formulas to address Wind-Cold with symptoms like chills, absence of sweating, and body aches.

3. Honeysuckle (Jin Yin Hua) and Forsythia (Lian Qiao):

• Properties: Cold, sweet (Jin Yin Hua); slightly cold, bitter (Lian Qiao).
• Functions: Clear Heat and toxins, disperse Wind-Heat, reduce inflammation.
• Usage: Commonly used together to treat sore throat, fever, and other Wind-Heat symptoms.

Acupressure and Other TCM Techniques for Cold Relief

Acupressure Points for Common Cold Relief

Acupressure, a technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to restore balance and alleviate cold symptoms. Here’s a step-by-step guide to some effective acupressure points for cold relief:

1. LI4 (Hegu) – Union Valley

• Location: Between the thumb and index finger.
• How to Stimulate: Apply firm pressure using your thumb and index finger on the opposite hand, massaging in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes. Repeat on the other hand.
• Benefits: Relieves nasal congestion, sneezing, and symptoms of the common cold.

2. LU7 (Lieque) – Broken Sequence

• Location: Above the wrist, near the base of the thumb.
• How to Stimulate: Gently press and massage this point with your thumb for 1-2 minutes on each wrist.
• Benefits: Eases cough, sore throat, and nasal congestion.

3. GB20 (Fengchi) – Wind Pool

• Location: Below the base of the skull, in the hollows on either side of the spine.
• How to Stimulate: Place your thumbs on the points and massage upwards for 1-2 minutes while taking deep breaths.
• Benefits: Relieves headache, stiff neck, and helps clear nasal passages.

4. ST36 (Zusanli) – Leg Three Miles

• Location: Four finger-widths below the kneecap, one finger-width to the outside of the shinbone.
• How to Stimulate: Firmly press with your thumb and massage for 1-2 minutes on each leg.
• Benefits: Strengthens immunity and boosts overall energy, helping the body fight off colds.

Moxibustion and Cupping for Cold Relief

Moxibustion

Moxibustion involves burning dried mugwort (moxa) near specific acupoints to stimulate healing through warmth and enhanced circulation, ideal for relieving cold symptoms.

Benefits for Colds:

• Warms the meridians to dispel Cold and Dampness that may contribute to cold symptoms.
• Enhances Qi flow, helping to boost immune response.

Application:

Performed by a practitioner who holds a moxa stick near acupoints until the area feels warm. Common points for colds include ST36 (Zusanli) and LI4 (Hegu).

Cupping

Cupping therapy uses suction to draw out toxins, improve blood flow, and relieve tension.

Benefits for Colds:

• Releases tightness in the upper back and chest, often contributing to relief from cold symptoms.
• Promotes relaxation and supports recovery.

Application:

• Cups are placed on the back or chest, creating a gentle suction that supports circulation and eases respiratory symptoms.

When to Seek Professional Acupuncture for a Common Cold

Seeking professional acupuncture for a common cold can be especially beneficial when symptoms are persistent or unusually severe. If relief isn’t achieved through acupressure or home remedies, professional acupuncture clinics offer a targeted approach to address the root causes.

At ACA Acupuncture and Wellness, our practitioners are highly trained in using acupuncture to support the body’s immune response against colds. We recognize that each person’s experience with a cold is unique, so we conduct thorough assessments to understand the specific factors contributing to your symptoms. By tailoring our acupuncture techniques to your needs, we aim to alleviate current discomfort while supporting your overall health and resilience. Our approach combines traditional acupuncture methods with modern insights to provide you with the most effective care possible.

It’s also wise to consider acupuncture if your cold symptoms are accompanied by other concerning signs, such as persistent fatigue, body aches, or digestive discomfort, as these may indicate a need for more comprehensive care.

Lifestyle Tips: How to Overcome a Common Cold Naturally

Dietary Recommendations

Foods to Eat and Avoid During a Cold

Foods to Eat:

• Vitamin C-Rich Choices: Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens help support immune function.
• Warm, Comforting Soups: Broths made with ginger, garlic, and vegetables provide warmth, hydration, and nourishment.
• Hydrating Fruits and Vegetables: Oranges, cucumbers, and watermelon keep you hydrated, a key component in fighting colds.

The Role of Hydration and Warming Foods:

• Hydration: Aim to drink 8-10 glasses of water or warm herbal teas daily, which helps the body flush out toxins and maintain immune function.
• Warming Foods: Foods like ginger, garlic, and onions stimulate circulation, helping ease cold symptoms.

Foods to Avoid:

• Cold and Raw Foods: Introducing more cold energy to the body can exacerbate symptoms; warm, cooked meals are preferable.
• Sugary and Processed Foods: High sugar intake may weaken immune response and increase inflammation.
• Dairy Products: Dairy can thicken mucus, which may worsen congestion.

Rest and Recovery

Rest is essential when combating a cold. Prioritizing 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night allows the immune system to function at its best. Setting up a comfortable sleep environment—keeping the room dark, quiet, and warm—supports deep, restorative rest.

To aid recovery further, consider practices like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle stretching to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Light exercise, such as yoga or tai chi, can improve circulation and support the body’s natural defenses without causing strain.

Building a Stronger Immune System to Prevent Future Colds

Maintaining balance is key to keeping the immune system resilient against seasonal illnesses. Daily habits, like consuming warming foods, staying hydrated, and managing stress, all contribute to immune health. Regular acupressure, herbal support, and mindful lifestyle choices help build a robust defense against colds.

Herbs That Support Long-Term Immunity

Recommended Herbs for Immune Health:

• Astragalus (Huang Qi): Known for strengthening Qi and supporting immune defenses.
• Reishi Mushroom (Ling Zhi): Enhances immune resilience and manages stress.
• Schisandra Berry (Wu Wei Zi): Increases resistance to stress and boosts mental clarity.

Practical Tips for Avoiding Cold Exposure

Protecting Yourself from Environmental Elements

External factors, such as exposure to cold and wind, can disrupt the body’s balance, increasing susceptibility to colds.

• Cover Up in Cold Weather: Wearing scarves and hats in chilly or windy weather protects against cold exposure.
• Avoid Sudden Temperature Shifts: Gradual adaptation to different environments helps maintain balance.
• Create a Cozy Home Environment: Keeping your home warm and draft-free adds a layer of comfort and wellness.

By incorporating these practices, you can strengthen your body’s defenses against seasonal illnesses, fostering well-being and vitality year-round.